Is That Paraglider Video Real? Why News Outlets Are Deleting It FAST

NBC Leads the Charge: News Outlets Pull Viral Chinese Paraglider Video Amidst AI Concerns

In a rapidly evolving media landscape, the challenge of verifying the authenticity of viral content is becoming increasingly critical. A dramatic video, initially touted as showcasing a Chinese paraglider's incredible survival after an unexpected 8,500-meter (27,000 ft) ascent and exposure to subzero temperatures, has been withdrawn from several prominent news websites following growing suspicions that it may be AI-generated.

The video, which quickly spread across the globe, was initially featured on major news platforms, including:

• BBC
• TF1 (France)
• The Guardian
• The New York Times

NBC News was the first major U.S. network to take action, pulling the video early Friday after receiving information suggesting its inauthenticity. Their statement, posted alongside the now-removed video, explained:

"NBC News has determined that some of the footage provided by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV and distributed by Reuters that appeared in our initial coverage was AI-generated. We have removed this video and are continuing to report on the veracity of the story. This note will be updated in due course."

Following NBC's lead, the BBC also removed the video, stating they were investigating its authenticity. CNN updated a previous post featuring the video, adding that they were also investigating the footage and seeking further information from Peng Yujiang, the paraglider, who has not yet responded to requests.

The original story described Peng Yujiang, a 55-year-old paraglider, encountering a terrifying situation after his equipment was caught in a powerful updraft, often referred to as a "cloud suck." The viral video depicted Peng battling fierce winds and appearing frostbitten and disoriented above the clouds.

Key details about the video's origin and distribution:

• First appeared on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok.
• Licensed by Chinese State TV network CCTV and various viral video distributors.

The rising concern over AI-generated content presents a significant challenge for news organizations striving to deliver accurate and trustworthy information. The incident highlights the necessity for rigorous verification processes and a cautious approach to viral videos, particularly those originating from less transparent sources.

Adding to the suspicion, reports have surfaced indicating that the video may have been cropped to remove a logo for Doubao AI, an AI tool developed by ByteDance, the parent company of Douyin and TikTok. This discovery further fueled doubts regarding the video's authenticity.

The veracity of the entire story is now under review as news outlets scramble to confirm the details. NBC News reported reaching out to social media accounts linked to Peng Yujiang but has yet to receive a response.

Deadline has contacted CCTV for comment but has not yet received a response.
This developing situation serves as a stark reminder of the growing complexities in the digital age. As AI technology advances, so too must our ability to discern fact from fiction.

Tags: AI generated video, Chinese paraglider, Paragliding accident, Fake video, NBC News, CCTV, Reuters, Pulled video, News authenticity, AI video concern, Douyin, Doubao AI, ByteDance, Peng Yujiang

Source: https://deadline.com/2025/05/nbc-viral-chinese-paraglider-video-concerns-ai-generated-1236414202/